Curator’s statement
New Orleans is special for its unique fusion of cultures, vibrant music scene and mouthwatering cuisine. From the lively streets of the French Quarter to the serene beauty of the Mississippi River, the city offers a tapestry of experiences that captivate the senses and leave an indelible mark on all who visit. Halloween in New Orleans offers a plethora of unique ways to spend a spooky holiday.
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Things to do in New Orleans
Haunted History Tours: Explore the city's spooky past with guided tours that delve into its haunted landmarks and eerie stories.
Voodoo Experience: Join in the festivities of the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, a multi-day music festival featuring performances by renowned artists.
Ghost Hunting: Embark on a ghost hunting adventure in reputedly haunted locations like the LaLaurie Mansion or the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Voodoo Fest: Immerse yourself in the mystique of Voodoo Fest, a Halloween-themed music festival offering a lineup of live performances, art installations, and food vendors.
Costume Parties: Attend one of the many costume parties happening throughout the city, from extravagant balls to themed club events.
Boo at the Zoo: Bring the family to Audubon Zoo for Boo at the Zoo, a kid-friendly Halloween event featuring trick-or-treating, games, and animal encounters.
Haunted Houses: Experience the thrills and chills of New Orleans' haunted houses, such as the Mortuary Haunted House or the House of Shock.
French Quarter Frights: Take a stroll through the French Quarter and admire the elaborate Halloween decorations adorning the historic buildings.
Cemetery Tours: Explore the city's historic cemeteries on guided tours, where you can learn about the unique burial practices and folklore surrounding New Orleans' graveyards.
Halloween Parades: Join in the festive atmosphere of Halloween parades like the Krewe of Boo, featuring elaborate floats, costumed marchers, and plenty of candy for spectators.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Commander’s Palace: A New Orleans institution known for its award-winning Creole cuisine and elegant ambiance. Recommended for its impeccable service, iconic turtle soup, and decadent bread pudding soufflé.
Café Du Monde: A must-visit for beignets and café au lait, served 24/7 in the heart of the French Quarter. Recommended for its iconic open-air setting, perfect for people-watching while enjoying a taste of New Orleans’ culinary heritage.
Jacques-Imo’s Cafe: A lively eatery serving up innovative Creole and Cajun dishes in a funky, eclectic atmosphere. Recommended for its funky décor, generous portions, and mouthwatering specialties like alligator cheesecake and shrimp & alligator sausage cheesecake.
Galatoire’s: A classic French Quarter restaurant renowned for its traditional Creole cuisine and timeless ambiance. Recommended for its Friday lunch tradition, where locals and visitors alike gather for a festive meal of seafood gumbo, fried fish, and bread pudding soufflé.
Drago’s Seafood Restaurant: Famous for its charbroiled oysters, this family-owned establishment offers a taste of the Gulf Coast’s finest seafood. Recommended for its lively atmosphere, friendly service, and signature dishes like the lobster pasta and seafood platters.
Parkway Bakery and Tavern: A beloved spot for po’boys, featuring a variety of fillings from fried shrimp to roast beef. Recommended for its casual vibe, friendly staff, and mouthwatering sandwiches served on freshly baked French bread.
Cochon: A modern Cajun restaurant showcasing the flavors of the Louisiana countryside with a focus on locally sourced ingredients. Recommended for its inventive menu, cozy atmosphere, and standout dishes like the cochon de lait and fried alligator.
Sazerac Bar: Located in the historic Roosevelt Hotel, this iconic bar is famous for its namesake cocktail, the Sazerac. Recommended for its elegant Art Deco décor, live jazz music, and expertly crafted cocktails that pay homage to New Orleans’ cocktail culture.
The Court of Two Sisters: Set in a charming courtyard in the French Quarter, this restaurant offers a classic Creole dining experience with a focus on traditional dishes and Southern hospitality. Recommended for its picturesque setting, daily jazz brunch, and expansive buffet featuring favorites like shrimp étouffée and crawfish étouffée.
Arnaud’s Restaurant: Another French Quarter gem, Arnaud's has been serving classic Creole cuisine since 1918. Recommended for its timeless elegance, impeccable service, and signature dishes like the shrimp Arnaud and Café Brûlot Diabolique, prepared tableside for a memorable dining experience.
Need to know
This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans. For more travel tips, check out Fora Advisor Lily Zenner's guide, The Higgins Hotel, New Orleans: Historical Charm with a Modern Twist.
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